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The QS7 is a very cool music-making machine. It is more feature ladden for the buck than other synths I've reviewed. The QS7 sounds are excellent, and while no board can address every style equally, the QS7's expandability allows it to cover an extremely wide range of music. The patches are clear and accurate. Being a pianist, I am critical of the acoustic piano samples which leave a little to be desired, but they're usable. I didn't buy the board for its acoustic piano sounds, I have that covered with other dedicated boards. I bought it for it's synth capabilities, and I wouldn't expect a board with such an expanse of sounds to be able to handle all the complexities of recreating an acoustic piano sound in detail. Also, while on the subject, the feel of the keyboard does not lend itself to any kind of decent piano technique. This is really a synth board with a synth feel, bottom line. Other acoustic sounds such as brass, wind, and string patches are beautiful and very convincing. The 76 note keyboard allows you to play a lot of the sounds easier since many patches need to play in their proper register (ie; tuba, piccolo).
The synth and effect patches are interesting and varied. This board is ideal for soundtracks and media related work. The electric pianos are really cool, and so are the organs. The construction is very rugged, but the board isn't too heavy. The signal outs are plentiful and well thought out. And, of course, the digital outs are a welcome plus. The controls are logical and the button sequences are not too esoteric. The sound groups are divided up clearly and its pretty easy getting from one sound to the next. It's multitimbral capabilities are extensive and easy to setup. This board would make a decent master controller if need be, but not as good, of course, as a dedicated unit would be. The QS7 doesn't work, feel, or sound like a Korg, or a Roland, or an Ensoniq - not that you would expect it to, but many manufacturers tend to "copy" certain conventions and you sometimes forget what you're playing. Alesis built the QS series around their own design concepts and its a pleasing change. I really like how it's setup and would recommend it highly as a valuable addition to any keyboard rig.
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